Pasler
– Burgenland, Austria
Following in the footsteps of their father, Franz, brothers Johannes and Stefan Pasler founded their winery in 2015, intending to produce authentic, expressive wines true to their region and climate in the Leithaberg DAC, a region believed to be one of the oldest viticultural areas in Europe, dating back to the 8th century BC.
The Leithaberg Hills are on the outskirts of the Austrian Alps. Previously an ocean bed 15 million years ago, the soils are veined with limestone deposits that break through the vineyards, making each site a unique composition of limestone and slate.
The use of sustainable vineyard practices and hand selection is meticulous. It allows the fermentation and maturation process to be as hands-off as possible. The attitude continues in the basement: “Healthy, loose grapes, long maceration times, and spontaneous fermentation accompany us even after the harvest.” The wines are left to their own devices, making authentic wines with vibrant aromas, fruit flavor, and balanced acidity.
As for the perfect Xmas wine, the Welschriesling Alte Reben is perfect if you’re going for a light meal this holiday season. Flavors of stewed pear and yellow apple and a touch of cream and saltiness complement lightly grilled poultry with endive and capers.
Cultivation: 5.5ha
Production: 15,000 bottles/year
Varieties: Blaufränkisch, St. Laurent, Chardonnay, Welschriesling, Gewürztraminer, Grauburgunder, Grüner Veltliner, Gelber Muskateller
Approach: Organic, 2 vineyards with biodynamic practices.
Certifications: Organic certified
Sulfites: If needed, < 20 mg/l during maturation, 35 mg/l at bottling